John Glenn

space explorer · American hero · astronaut

First American Orbiter. John Glenn flew around Earth three times in 1962 aboard his spacecraft, making him the first American to orbit our planet. This incredible journey took about five hours and made him a huge hero back home.

Marine and Pilot. Before becoming an astronaut, Glenn was a skilled Marine Corps aviator who flew fighter jets. His experience as a pilot helped prepare him for the challenges of space travel.

Senator for 25 Years. After leaving NASA, Glenn served as a U.S. senator from Ohio from 1974 to 1999, helping make laws for the country. He spent decades in politics after his days as an astronaut.

Second Space Adventure. In 1998, Glenn did something amazing: he flew to space again at age 77, making him one of the oldest people ever to visit space. His return to orbit proved that age doesn't have to stop your dreams.